Fred and Charlotte Ward at Nevada Minerals and Books

The internationally acclaimed Fred Ward Gem Book Series is a refreshing departure from the heavy scientific tomes that are normally associated with the Gemstone field.

Based on Mr. Ward’s innovative and widely acclaimed 14-year series in National Geographic Magazine, each one of these beautifully designed and printed, inexpensive, all-color books feature a major gemstone.

Together, they offer a global view of the history, lore, and significance of nature’s rarities. In 64 pages you will discover what determines value, why people have always treasured precious crystals and organic gems, and how to buy and care for yours.

I was really excited to see that revisions of all the titles have recently been released assuring you that the information is current.

So, if you think you have the Fred Ward Gem Books…think again – if you own the Jade book on the top — you will love

the updated information and new photos in the revised edition on the Jade book (bottom)

These are books you will keep handy for reference, give to friends who love specimens, gems, and jewelry…but because of the easy style of these books, they are the perfect add on item for a jewelry shop.

Imagine being able to sell a book to your pearl customers that gives them the history and lore of the pearl throughout the world. This is the information age and your customers will appreciate the knowledge gained and these books will instill an appreciation of the value of the gemstones and jewelry they purchase.

The Latest Edition (Addition):

Everyone who knows Fred knows that his lovely wife Charlotte has always helped him with these books whether it was clerical, sales or editing her hand is in the books. In the latest edition “Phenominal Gems”, Fred’s glorious photos are accompanied by Charlotte’s words.

In this latest book, the Ward’s look at gems that display a phenomenon. Whether that is color change, asterism, or the transcendent light of a moonstone.

From their website: Discover a range of showy surprises to suit your every taste and mood. As Robin Banchik, of Crystalarium, characterizes the passion for phenomenal stones, let’s enjoy indulging “our obsession for ‘esoteric weirdness.’” Join us as we present structures one chapter at a time to show how these “gems that do tricks” perform their magic.

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There was a steady flow of traffic thanks to the big following the Wards have garnered…they are popular as speakers at the local Gem and Mineral Societies and Gem Shows. But the credit also goes to Walter at Nevada Minerals and Books who has established a good following from the local Jewelry Classes (Santa Ana College) and Gemology Courses (Santiago Canyon College).

The flow of customers was steady – but still provided some one-on-one time with Fred who is a delight to talk with and a wealth of experience.